ANN ARBOR — The Michigan Municipal League is honoring 14 graduates of its 2021 Elected Officials Academy, including two from the Upper Peninsula.

Now in its 24th year, the Elected Officials Academy is an ongoing four-level program that educates and recognizes elected officials across the state for their dedication to becoming as professional and knowledgeable as possible in the role of public servant. The Elected Officials Academy, a voluntary education and recognition program, was created in 1997 by a board of elected officials working with League staff.

Sault Ste. Marie Mayor Donald Gerrie and Newberry Village President Catherine Freese are recipients of the 2021 Level One Education Award for those who have completed 25 academy credits. Others are earning the award are the following elected officials: Saint Johns Mayor Bob Craig; Saginaw City Councilman William Ostash; Fremont City councilmen Sandra Siegel; Berkley city councilmembers John C. (Jack) Blanchard and Ross Gavin; Linden City Councilwoman Pam Howd; and Dearborn City Councilman Leslie Herrick.

The recipients of the 2021 Level Two Leadership Award have completed 55 academy credits. They include Montrose Mayor Colleen Brown, Berkley City Councilman Dennis Hennen and Farmington Hills City Councilman Kenneth Massey.

The recipients of the 2021 Level Three Governance Award have completed 100 academy credits and include Dearborn Heights City Treasurer Lisa Hicks-Clayton and Hamtramck City Councilman Ian Perrotta.